From March 17 to 19, 2026, Fribourg will host the seventh edition of BIOKET, a leading international conference in the field of bioeconomy, held for the first time in Switzerland. Over three days, experts, researchers, industry leaders, and startups will explore the most advanced technologies for biomass valorization. The event is organized by the international cluster Bioeconomy For Change, in partnership with the Fribourg Development Agency. CleantechAlps and BioAlps are partners of the event BIOKET 2026 and we will be moderating a session entitled “KETs driving innovation from lab to scale”
Forum Fribourg will host the next edition of BIOKET in March 2026—one of the world’s leading conferences dedicated to biomass valorization technologies. A first for Switzerland, this event highlights the growing importance of the canton of Fribourg in the field of bioeconomy.
Launched in 2018 by the France-based cluster Bioeconomy For Change (B4C), BIOKET (BIOeconomy Key Enabling Technologies) focuses on cutting-edge technologies for converting biomass into high value-added molecules. Every year, it brings together hundreds of professionals—scientists, industrial leaders, startups, clusters, and investors—to explore the most advanced solutions for processing and valorizing bio-based resources. Previous editions were held in Lille, Trois-Rivières (Canada), Reims, and Brussels. The 2025 edition in Brussels welcomed over 600 participants, 150 speakers, and facilitated 1,200 B2B (business-to-business) meetings
A Bold Move for Switzerland and Fribourg
“Hosting BIOKET 2026 in Fribourg is a strong recognition of our canton, which in recent years has established itself as a credible and committed player in the field of bioeconomy,” says Olivier Curty, State Councillor and Minister of Economic Affairs. “This international event strengthens our development strategy at the intersection of research, industry, and the sustainable, circular use of resources.”
Bioeconomy is a strategic pillar of the canton’s economic development. It encompasses all activities that aim to convert organic matter—of plant or animal origin—into materials, molecules, or energy. In Fribourg, this ambition is embodied by both established companies and innovative startups such as Bloom Biorenewables and Seprify, supported by cutting-edge infrastructure and a strong ecosystem for applied research, incubation, and industrialization.
A Swiss First, Applauded by the Organizers
“After France, Canada, and Belgium, it’s a real pleasure for us to bring BIOKET to Switzerland— and especially to Fribourg,” says Johan De Coninck, Director of Connexions & International at BIOKET. “The canton played a particularly active role during the last editions in Reims and Brussels, with a highly engaged and well-prepared delegation. We truly appreciate the quality of exchanges with Fribourg’s partners, as well as their strong commitment to collaborative, innovation-driven approaches.”Practical information, programs from previous editions, and—soon—the 2026 agenda and registration details are available on the official website : www.bioket.tech
